NumberKey Stage 3

Simplifying fractions

Write a fraction in its simplest form by cancelling common factors.

  • Find the highest common factor (HCF) of the numerator and denominator.
  • Write the common factor in the numerator and denominator, then cancel that factor.
  • In simplest form, the numerator and denominator have no common factor greater than 1.

Example 1

Cancel a common factor

Write in its simplest form.

Common factor: 6.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.

Example 2

An improper fraction

Fully simplify the fraction .

Common factor: 5.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.

Your turn

Question 1

Write the fraction in its simplest form.

Check answer
Common factor: 6.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 2

Fully simplify the fraction.

Check answer
Common factor: 5.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 3

Write the fraction in its simplest form.

Check answer
Common factor: 14.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 4

Fully simplify the fraction.

Check answer
Common factor: 15.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 5

Write the fraction in its simplest form.

Check answer
Common factor: 6.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
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Equivalent fractionsImproper fractions to mixed numbers